Shooting Stars Program

Our school carries the name of Amanda C. Rowe, who served Portland Public Schools for 30 years as a health teacher and school nurse. Amanda C. Rowe Elementary serves about 468 students from pre-K through 5th grade on Orono Road, and our families speak 19 languages. Every student takes visual arts, performing arts and library alongside literacy, math and science. Our teacher-librarians run First Chapter Friday read-alouds, and 4th graders take field trips such as Mackworth Island. We are a Title I school, with literacy and math interventionists, English language teachers and special education staff who join parent conferences. Social-emotional learning follows the Second Step program, and our counselor and social workers lead social groups. As a PBIS school, we hand out Mile Tiles for meeting expectations, and each filled board earns a schoolwide celebration. Portland Recreation runs a Before and After the Bell program in our building for kindergarten through 5th grade, with homework help, games, crafts and snacks. Our PTO organizes events such as the Walk-a-thon, RoweFest, community dinners and student clubs.

For over twenty years Aucocisco School and Learning Center has supported students whose learning needs have not been met in traditional academic environments. Aucocisco is a Maine approved special purpose private school and accepts both private students and public school referrals. The day school delivers high-quality, small-group instruction that closes learning gaps while supporting social and emotional learning. Tutors work from an evidence-based curriculum, and educational testing identifies strengths and gaps so that parents, students, and educators can plan together. Enrichment programming runs in small groups so children with anxiety and sensory needs can be creative and make friends. Aucocisco has a strong track record with students who have dyslexia, autism, ADHD, executive functioning issues, processing delays, anxiety, and school refusal.

The After School Program in Westbrook, Maine, is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment for children in grades K through 5, focusing on their holistic development and well-being. With a commitment to fostering success in academics, sports, leadership, and life skills, the program creates an engaging atmosphere filled with diverse activities such as indoor sports, arts and crafts, and educational lessons. The experienced team of coaches is carefully selected for their expertise and trustworthiness, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention in a safe setting. This program stands out due to its low student-to-teacher ratio and strong emphasis on family partnerships, allowing parents to feel confident in their child's care and development. Additionally, the inclusion of secure daily transportation from local schools, enhances convenience for families. With full-day camp options available during school closures and an exciting summer camp program, this after school initiative strives to support families year-round while creating lasting memories for children.